Gateway to the World Library and South Texas Preparatory Academy (STPA) hosted the first ever South Texas Independent School District (STISD) ‘Star Wars Reads Day’ on Friday, Oct. 10, in conjunction with the international event promoting reading and literacy.

The initiative was launched in 2012 by Lucasfilm and its publishing partners, and last week STPA student and faculty fans had the opportunity to participate.

Students were greeted by Gateway to the World Library staff and STPA faculty dressed as Stars Wars characters, and they enjoyed various crafts, activities and giveaways during the hour-long event.

Two STPA teachers, Robert Gill and Rey Munoz, read Star Wars stories to students and encouraged them to remain active in reading.

Students were also invited to dress as their favorite characters and to compete in the costume contest.

Dante Garcia (7th) of San Juan took first place, Tarek Sarhill (8th) of Harlingen took second place, and Pierre Souff (8th) of Harlingen claimed third. Winners picked their favorite find from a reading section provided by Barnes & Noble.

Gateway to the World Library plans to make this an annual event for students to celebrate all things Star Wars, but most importantly reading and literacy.